2023 Regatta Report
The 2023 Regatta took place in a mix of weather conditions following the Dart 18 Worlds and included the 125th YOD Anniversary Regatta.
The week-long event featured a range of handicap classes: one for boats with a YTS handicap under 1000 and another for those over 1000. This format allowed boats of different sizes and types to compete on an equal footing, with smaller, older boats and heavier, newer ones racing in one class, and lighter, high-tech boats in the other. Whenever possible, there were two races per day.
Alan Holmes and his crew on "Chaotic" made their annual pilgrimage from Blyth, delivering their usual high-class performance in the Class A fast handicap. Despite their efforts, they couldn't quite match the consistency of Mike Abbey's Aquaholic and his well-trained crew. Aquaholic dominated Class A, winning both series for individual trophies and the overall title. The "Aquaholics" walked away with most of the silverware, and Mike was last seen heading to the local shop for some Silvo cleaner!
In the H Class handicap, Whispy managed to edge out Garry Kaye's Mari Holme Folkboat, winning the class trophy by a narrow margin due to a better discard. The results were very close in this class.
The first race of the week was a coastal race for both A and H classes. However, with rough seas around Flamborough Head, it was decided to run a long bay course instead. The course included three circuits from an inner RYYC mark to the South Smithwick, on to the South Landing Outfall mark, into Sewerby, and back to the harbour. The wind, forecasted to ease from 20 knots, instead increased steadily. The A and H boats turned out in small numbers, and on the first run, the "Aquaholics" faced a challenging Chinese gybe with their spinnaker up in 25 knots of wind, which then increased further. Despite the difficult conditions, both Aquaholic and Whispy managed to finish safely.
Throughout the week, racing took place in varying conditions, with one day lost to bad weather. Class A boats completed two races each day, while the more sedate H Class enjoyed close results over five days of racing.
On the final day, the Cadet and Ladies race was combined into the Guy Shackles race, with separate trophies awarded based on performance. The Blyth fleet turned out to compete, and the first three places were taken by catamarans. Joe Franks was awarded the Guy Shackles trophy. In the combined Ladies and Cadet race, Daisy Jones delivered a commendable performance, keeping her dad Tim in check in strong winds. Despite a gust of over 35 knots at the final windward mark nearly capsizing them, Daisy was awarded the Ladies and Cadet trophies by unanimous agreement for her exceptional sailing.
Overall, the 2023 Regatta was a successful and enjoyable event, highlighting the competitive spirit and camaraderie of the RYYC community. We look forward to more exciting races in the future!
Last updated 3:33pm on 8 July 2024
